EP Review: Couch Prints - 'Tell U'

Couch Prints’ debut EP ‘Tell U’ is a chronicle of where the indie pop trio have been, and sparkles with their future potential.

Jayanna Roberts, Brandon Tong and Jake Truax created elements of their synth sound in Denver and Paris, before finding a permanent home in NYC. They have come together cohesively, mixing poetic lyrics with intricate electronic music.

“Every moment I try to escape,” Jayanna sings to open the EP, and it captures the feeling of escapism that is vital throughout. ‘Of Drawing’ muses over returning feelings, like a DIY Carly Rae Jepsen.

The title track, ‘Tell U’ showcases evidence that Couch Prints play with the traditional elements of pop song structure. The creative lyrics move over pleasing and spacious sound, with synths that will grow on you. As the first official Couch Prints song, it’s a high bar. 

‘Moto X’ starts slowly, the sequence of melodic grooves turning into something bigger, while talking of tangible things – magazines, receipts and bed sheets. ‘Lost Me’ tells a common story in an interesting and intricate way, the vocals wrapped up tightly in 80s’ nostalgia.     

The instrumental ‘(Hold)’ sets the scene for the grand finale, ‘Faces’. It crafts a home in the space between indie music and something a little softer. The soaring synths bring a touch of triumph as Jayanna’s vocals turn Brandon’s relationship experience into a mournful track with big pop potential. 

It takes an element of confidence to take relationships – the destruction of the old and the bonding of the new – and make it enjoyable. Couch Prints display this belief throughout this EP.

Inspired by Frou Frou and Shiny Toy Guns, their sound sits between genres – a little synthpop, some dance, and lots of proof that pop music doesn’t have to be straightforward – or boring.

Its escapist elements will take you someplace else, using grooves and percussion that feels fitting, but also alien at times. Inspired around the globe, ‘Tell U’ could make anywhere feel like home.

Words by Samuel Draper